Download Mix Rack - Digidesign

Mix Rack
for VENUE Systems
PN 9321-62801-00 REV C 12/12
Legal Notices
This guide is copyrighted ©2012 by Avid Technology, Inc., (hereafter “Avid”),
with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not be duplicated
in whole or in part without the written consent of Avid.
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Product features, specifications, system requirements, and availability are
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Guide Part Number 9321-62801-00 REV C 12/12
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We are always looking for ways to improve our documentation. If you have
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Safety Compliance
Safety Statement
This equipment has been tested to comply with USA and Canadian safety
certification in accordance with the specifications of UL Standards: UL60065 7th
/IEC 60065 7th and Canadian CAN/CSA C22.2 60065:03. Avid Inc., has been
authorized to apply the appropriate UL & CUL mark on its compliant equipment.
Warning
Rack-Mount Safety Instructions
1) Elevated Operating Ambient - If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack
assembly, the operating ambient temperature of the rack environment might be
greater than room ambient. Therefore, consider installing the equipment in an
environment compatible with the maximum ambient temperature (Tma)
specified by the manufacturer.
2) Reduced Air Flow - Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that
the amount of air flow required for safe operation of the equipment is not
compromised. Stage 48 airflow is from the front of the chassis enclosure to the
rear. Make allowances for cooling air to be available to the front panel surface
and no restrictions at the rear.
3) Mechanical Loading - Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be such
that ahazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven mechanical loading.
Important Safety Instructions
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Only perform the services explicitly described in the install and or user
manual. For services or procedures not outlined in the install or user manual,
speak with authorized service personnel.
6) Do not use this equipment near water.
7) Clean only with dry cloth.
8) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
9) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves,
or other equipment (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
10) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type
plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
11) Protect power cords from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the equipment.
12) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
13) For products that are not rack-mountable: Use only with a cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the equipment.
When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/equipment combination
to avoid injury from tip-over.
14) Unplug this equipment during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
15) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when
the equipment has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the
equipment, the equipment has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.
16) For products that are a Mains powered device:
The equipment shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects
filled with liquids (such as vases) shall be placed on the equipment.
Warning! To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this
equipment to rain or moisture.
17) For products containing a lithium battery:
CAUTION! Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type.
18) The power inlet is the main disconnect device and should remain
accessible. Disconnect the power cord before servicing the unit.
19) The equipment shall be used at a maximum ambient temperature of 40° C.
20) Disconnect power from mains before opening the product (console and
Stage 48)
4) Circuit Overloading - Consideration should be given to the connection of the
equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that overloading of the circuits
might have on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Appropriate
consideration of equipment nameplate ratings should be used when addressing
this concern.
5) Reliable Earthing - Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be
maintained. Particular attention should be given to supply connections other
than direct connections to the branch circuit (for example, use of power strips).
Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Mix Rack Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Included Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Expansion Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Operational Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Mix Rack Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Mix Rack Back Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FOH I/O Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
FOH Link Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Chapter 2. Connecting the Mix Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Connecting Consoles to Mix Rack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Audio Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Ancillary Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Powering the System Up and Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Restarting the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Configuring your System with a Mix Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
How to Proceed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Chapter 3. Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Mix Rack Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Chapter 4. Audio Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Mix Rack General Audio Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Stage Inputs and Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
FOH Inputs and Outputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Synchronization and Control I/O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Environmental Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
EMC (Electromagnetic Compliance) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Contents v
Chapter 1: Introduction
VENUE Mix Rack from Avid® provides stage and local I/O in a
single rack enclosure for VENUE systems.
Mix Rack is compatible with VENUE D-Show® and VENUE
Profile™ consoles, and forms a complete VENUE system when
paired with one of these consoles.
Mix Rack is also compatible with the VENUE Ethernet Snake
card and Stage 48 remote stage boxes, enabling Ethernet audio
snake connections from the Mix Rack to remotely located stage
I/O.
Mix Rack Features
Audio I/O
CPU, DSP, and System Drives
Mix Rack houses the CPU, DSP, hard drive and CD-ROM drive
that run the VENUE software on your VENUE system. VENUE
software is installed at the factory. The CD-ROM drive lets you
update or restore your VENUE system software, and install compatible plug-ins from their installer discs.
A standard Mix Rack includes two Mix Engine cards, which provide DSP for plug-ins and mixing. You can add an optional Mix
Engine card, up to a maximum of three.
Redundant Power Supply Units (PSUs)
Each Mix Rack comes with two universal (100V to 240V nominal, 50–60 Hz) PSUs with auto redundant failover and LED
status indication.
Stage I/O
• 48 inputs with mic preamps for stage inputs. Each fully recallable input provides individually selectable phantom
power, input gain, polarity invert, and a high-pass filter.
• 16 line-level outputs (expandable up to 32) to connect to
mains and monitors.
FOH I/O
• 8 pairs of analog I/O that can be used for hardware inserts,
or for input and output of line-level program material from
the FOH position.
• Analog and Digital (AES or S/PDIF) 2-Track inputs and
outputs.
• Com mic input, with gain control and phantom power.
• Monitor outputs to connect to near field monitor speakers at
the mix position.
Included Components
The following components are included in a standard Mix Rack
configuration:
• 1 Mix Rack unit with:
• 3 AI16 Analog Mic/Line Input cards (16 channels each)
• 1 AO16 Analog Output card (16 channels)
• 2 Mix Engine cards
• 1 FOH Link cable (for connection to a VENUE console)
• 2 IEC power cables
• VENUE System Restore software CD
• VENUE Standalone software CD and user guides
• ECx Ethernet Control software
• VENUEPack plug-in bundle and iLok
Synchronization and Control I/O
• MIDI In and Out ports, providing 16 channels of MIDI input and 16 channels of MIDI output
• Clock source jumper cable (installation of this cable is required to enable redundant recording outputs using multiple
HDx TDM or VENUE MADI Option cards)
• Word clock I/O for digital clock synchronization
• This guide
• USB 2.0 ports for USB disks, iLoks, and other USB devices
• 100 BaseT Ethernet (ECx) port for Ethernet-based remote
control
For more information on installing the clock source jumper
cable in the Mix Rack and enabling redundant outputs using
multiple installed HDx or VENUE MADI cards, see the
HDx TDM Card guide or the VENUE MADI Card guide.
Chapter 1: Introduction 1
Expansion Options
Operational Requirements
I/O Options
Temperature and Ventilation
Each Mix Rack supports a maximum of 3 input cards and 2 output cards for a total of up to 48 inputs and up to 32 outputs. Mix
Rack expansion I/O options include:
Mix Rack should be operated away from heat sources and with
adequate ventilation.
AI16 Analog Mic/Line Input Card that provides 16 analog
mic/line level inputs.
AO16 Analog Output Card that provides 16 analog line level out-
Storage
Mix Rack should be stored and transported at temperatures not
lower than 0 degrees F (–18 degrees C) and not exceeding
140 degrees F (60 degrees C).
puts.
XO16 Analog and Digital Output Card that provides 8 analog line
level outputs, and eight AES digital outputs.
AT16 A-Net Output Card that provides 16 channels of A-Net out-
put compatible with Aviom® Personal Mixers and other Pro16™
Series devices.
IOx Input and output expansion card that provides eight channels
of AES digital inputs and outputs, and eight pairs of analog
1/4–inch TRS inputs and outputs for hardware inserts.
Ethernet Snake Card I/O expansion card that provides Ethernet
audio snake connections to up to two Stage 48 remote stage I/O
boxes, letting you locate some or all of Mix Rack’s stage I/O remotely. For more information, see the Stage 48 Guide.
Operation
The Mix Rack unit should be operated at temperatures not lower
than 40 degrees F (4 degrees C) and not exceeding 115 degrees F
(40 degrees C).
Water and Moisture
Mix Rack should be operated away from sources of direct moisture and should be kept clear of liquids that might spill into the
unit. If condensation is present on the unit, leave the unit to dry in
ambient air for at least one hour before powering the unit on.
Cleaning and Maintenance
DSP Expansion
If you need to clean the surface of the Mix Rack, use a dry cloth.
Do not apply any cleaning solutions, spray cleaners, or abrasives
to the surface.
An additional Mix Engine card can be added to the Mix Rack (up
to a maximum of three Mix Engine cards) to increase the amount
of DSP available for mixer and plug-in processing.
Power Connections
Record and Playback Options
Each power supply in the Mix Rack requires its own power connection. Each power supply is auto voltage-selecting (100V to
240V). A modular IEC power cable is provided for each power
supply in the unit.
FWx Record/Playback Option Card This FireWire-based option
card lets you record or play back up to 18 channels of audio directly from Mix Rack with a Pro Tools system.
HDx Record/Playback Option Card This option card lets you record or play back up to 64 channels of audio directly from Mix
Rack with a Pro Tools system.
VENUE MADI Option Card This option card lets you send or receive up to 64 channels of MADI digital audio to or from an external MADI device such as an Avid HD MADI interface (which
you can use to record or playback audio with a Pro Tools system)
or a third-party MADI device.
2
Mix Rack
Mix Rack Front Panel
USB port
(internal)
Word Clock In/Out
and Status LEDs
ECx Ethernet port
USB 2.0 ports
FOH Link
connector
Power
switch
Reset
switches
Figure 1. Mix Rack front panel
ECx Ethernet Port
Reset Buttons
Use the ECx port to connect a laptop, tablet, or a wireless router
to Mix Rack to control your VENUE system remotely, enabled
by ECx Ethernet Control host and client software. (This port does
not support networking or any communication other than ECx,
and is not compatible with Stage 48 remote stage boxes.)
Pressing both Reset buttons simultaneously initiates a full system
restart.
To use ECx, you must first install the host and client software applications. See the VENUE D-Show Guide or the
VENUE Profile Guide for more information on installing
and using ECx.
USB Ports
Use the USB 2.0 ports on the front panel to connect iLoks, USB
key disks and other USB devices. (An additional, secure USB
port is located inside the Mix Rack chassis.)
Power Switch
The Power switch applies power to Mix Rack and starts the
VENUE system.
Use the Reset buttons only in the event of an emergency.
Word Clock I/O
Use the Word Clock In and Word Clock Out ports to integrate external digital devices with Mix Rack.
Status LEDs
The Active and Sig LEDs indicate Word Clock status. Both the
Active and Sig LEDs light green when the system is locked. Both
LEDs blink red if there is a signal present but it cannot lock.
FOH Link Connector
Connect the FOH Link cable from the connector on Mix Rack to
the connector on your console. This cable provides all the data
and audio connections between your console and Mix Rack.
Chapter 1: Introduction 3
Mix Rack Back Panel
FOH I/O
section
A
Stage Input
section
B
C
Stage Output
section
D
E
CD-ROM drive
Record/Playback Option
slots
AC power
connectors and
Status LEDs
Figure 2. Mix Rack back panel, connectors, and I/O slots A–E
Stage Input and Output
CD-ROM Drive
Mix Rack has five slots available for Stage Input and Output.
Slots A-C are available for input cards (the AI16 Analog Input
card), while slots D and E are available for output cards (the
AO16 Analog Output card, the XO16 Analog and Digital Output
card, or the AT16 A-Net Output Card).
The built-in CD-ROM drive is for installing software updates,
plug-ins, and other data (such as a show file created and saved using the Standalone software). The CD-ROM drive is read-only.
No data can be written to blank discs placed in the drive.
Stage Input Section
FOH I/O
In its base configuration, the Stage Input section provides 48
channels of audio input, arranged in three rows of 16 channels, to
connect stage input sources.
The FOH I/O section includes connectors for audio (analog inserts, analog and digital 2-track inputs), synchronization (MIDI),
and communication (Com mic input, with gain). For more information, see “FOH I/O Section” on page 5.
An analog multicore snake (not provided) is used to bring inputs
from stage to the mix position.
Record/Playback Options Slots
Stage Output Section
In its base configuration, the Stage Output section provides 16
channels of stage output to connect to house/mains and stage
monitors. Mix Rack can be expanded with other types of stage
output (see “I/O Options” on page 2 for more information).
Ethernet Snake Card
You can convert your Mix Rack so it can be used with Stage 48
remote stage I/O boxes. Some or all existing stage I/O cards are
removed from Mix Rack and installed in up to two Stage 48 remote stage boxes. An Ethernet Snake card is then installed in slot
C of Mix Rack. See the Stage 48 Guide for more information.
4
Mix Rack
These slots let you add FWx, HDx, or VENUE MADI Option
cards (see “Record and Playback Options” on page 2 for more information).
AC Power Connectors (2)
The AC Power connectors accept standard AC power cables, for
powering each of the two internal Mix Rack power supply units.
Mix Rack power supplies are auto-power selecting (100V to
240V, 50–60 Hz) and automatically work with a standard modular power cord when connected to an AC receptacle in any country.
FOH I/O Section
Com Mic Phantom Power
Com Mic Gain
MIDI I/O
2-Track
AES/EBU I/O
Monitor
Outputs
Com Mic
Input
2-Track Digital
Format selector
2-Track Analog I/O
2-Track
S/PDIF I/O
Analog I/O 1–8
Figure 3. FOH I/O connectors on Mix Rack
MIDI I/O Ports
2-Track Analog Inputs and Outputs
The MIDI In and Out Ports provide 16 channels of MIDI input
and 16 channels of MIDI output to the system. The MIDI I/O
ports are used in sending and receiving Snapshot MIDI messages,
and in receiving MIDI Time Code from external devices.
The 2-Track analog connections are used for input and output of
analog audio material. These are balanced 1/4-inch TRS connectors.
Com Mic, Gain Control, and Phantom Power
The Com Mic connector and controls allow connection of a mic,
or a line level source. The Com Mic input is a female XLR/TRS
connector that accepts XLR or TRS jacks. The Gain control operates in steps of 3 dB. Phantom power may be applied to the
Com mic with the Mic Power switch.
Do not connect an intercom system directly to the Com input, as some intercom systems use a signalling voltage
which can damage the FOH IO card.
Monitor Outputs
Monitor Outputs are used for output to a near-field monitors or a
cue mix system (not included). These are 1/4-inch balanced TRS
connectors.
2-Track Digital Inputs and Outputs
The 2-Track digital connections are used for input and output of
digital audio material. Stereo AES/EBU or S/PDIF I/O connectors are selectable with the AES–SPDIF switch. These connectors support 24-bit, 48 kHz digital signals. Input signals with
other sample rates are sample-rate converted to 48 kHz.
Analog I/O (1–8)
The 8 pairs of analog inputs and outputs are used for hardware inserts, outboard gear, or for input and output of program material
from the mix position. These are balanced, 1/4-inch TRS connectors.
IOx
You can expand Mix Rack’s local analog and digital I/O by installing an IOx card. IOx must be installed in slot A (directly below the FOH I/O section). Existing stage I/O cards must be rearranged. See the IOx Card guide for more information.
Chapter 1: Introduction 5
FOH Link Cable
TB Bundle
+ Foil Shield
HP Bundle
+ Foil Shield
Rack Bundle
+ Foil Shield
Overall Shield
+Foil/Braid Shield
USB Bundle
+Foil Shield
CAN Bundle
+ Foil Shield
VGA Bundle
+ Foil Shield
Drain Wire
Figure 4. FOH Link cable specifications and connector pinout diagram
Connector Specifications
Cable Specifications
P1: KPT 60 ZIFF connector w/ metal backshell
VGA Bundle:
3 x 75 Ohm Coax, 2 x 24 awg Pair, 3 x 28awg
+ Foil and Braid shield
• Cannon P/N: KPSE06E22-55PF42F0 (housing)
• Cannon P/N: 030-9036-000 (contacts)
P2: KPT 55 Position w/ cable clamp, solder cup
• Cannon P/N: KPSE06E22-55PF42F0 (housing)
• Cannon P/N: 030-9036-000 (contacts)
USB Bundle:
1 x 28 awg Pair, 4 x 24awg + Drain
+ Foil and Braid shield
Rack Bundle:
5 x 28 awg, Foil shield
Talkback (TB) Bundle:
4 x 28 awg, Foil shield
Headphone (HP) Bundle:
4 x 28 awg, Foil shield
CAN Bundle:
9 x 28 awg, Foil shield
Overall Shield: 360 degree Foil and 65% Braid + Drain
Overall Jacket: PVC, Black, UL
Connect all shields to the connector shell and to position EE on
each connector.
6
Mix Rack
Connector Pinouts
FOH Link cable CAN BUNDLE pinouts
FOH Link cable VGA BUNDLE pinouts
P1
CAN BUNDLE
P2
Y
CAN 1 H
Y
U
r
CAN 1 L
r
GREEN DATA
A
Z
CAN 2 H
Z
T
BLUE DATA
T
s
CAN 2 L
s
V
ID
V
a
CAN 3 H
a
B
RED GND
B
b
CAN 3 L
b
S
GREEN GND
S
E
CAN 4 H
E
n
BLUE GND
n
F
CAN 4 L
F
W
GND
W
D
CAN CS
D
C
ID
C
m
ID
m
p
HSYNC
p
X
VSYNC
X
k
VGA SHIELD
k
P1
VGA BUNDLE
P2
U
RED DATA
A
FOH Link cable USB BUNDLE pinouts
FOH Link cable RACK BUNDLE pinouts
P1
USB BUNDLE
P2
K
USB 5+
K
J
USB GND
J
H
USB D+
H
d
USB D–
d
P1
RACK BUNDLE
P2
G
USB SHIELD
G
HH
RACK PSU
HH
f
USB +5
f
BB
RACK GND
BB
c
USB GND
c
CC
RACK SHD
CC
DD
SPR 1
DD
GG
SPR 2
GG
Not connected: AA, FF, z, x, w, v, u, t, q, e, L, g
FOH Link cable TALKBACK BUNDLE pinouts
P1
TB BUNDLE
P2
R
TB P
R
j
TB N
j
y
TB GND
y
P
TB SHEILD
P
FOH Link cable HEADPHONE BUNDLE pinouts
P1
HP BUNDLE
P2
N
HP L
N
i
HP R
i
h
HP GND
h
M
HP SHEILD
M
Chapter 1: Introduction 7
8
Mix Rack
Chapter 2: Connecting the Mix Rack
Connecting Consoles to Mix Rack
Mix Rack can be used with Profile or D-Show Main unit/Sidecar consoles.
To connect Profile and Mix Rack:

Connect one end of the FOH Link cable to the FOH Link port on the back panel of the Profile console. Connect the other end of the
FOH Link cable to the FOH Link port on the front panel Mix Rack. On each end, be sure to align the notch in the connector housing
with the slot in the plug, and to rotate the collar until the connector is fully latched.
Figure 5. FOH Link connection between Profile (left) and Mix Rack (right)
To connect the D-Show Main Unit and Mix Rack:

Connect one end of the FOH Link cable to the FOH Link port on the back panel of the Main unit. Connect the other end of the FOH
Link cable to the FOH Link port on the front panel Mix Rack. On each end, be sure to align the notch in the connector housing with
the slot in the plug, and to rotate the collar until the connector is fully latched.
Figure 6. FOH Link connection between D-Show Main unit (left) and Mix Rack (right)
Chapter 2: Connecting the Mix Rack 9
Audio Connections
Mix Rack provides 48 analog mic/line stage inputs, up to 32 analog line stage outputs, and a variety of analog and digital audio inputs
and outputs. You can use an analog multicore snake cable (not included) to carry multiple stage inputs and outputs to and from the Mix
Rack, or you can connect mics, instruments and other sources directly to Mix Rack Stage inputs, and connect Mix Rack Stage outputs
directly to the inputs on your house/mains systems, monitor systems, or other.
For outboard effects processors, communications, and similar needs, see “FOH I/O Section” on page 5.
For audio connections to and from Stage 48 remote stage boxes, see the Stage 48 Guide.
Stage I/O
Use the following sections to identify where to connect stage and FOH I/O to Mix Rack.
FOH I/O
(see page 5)
1–16
analog snake
Stage
Inputs
17–32
33–48
A
B
to
house/
mains,
monitors
zones
C
D
Stage Outputs
1–16
E
Figure 7. Mix Rack audio connectors and I/O slots (A–E) for stage inputs and outputs
Stage Inputs 1–48
To apply phantom power to a Mix Rack input source:
(Analog Mic/Line XLR Inputs)
1
Target a channel in the ACS section of the console.
The Stage Input section provides 48 channels of analog mic/line
inputs (XLR), to connect stage input sources. You can use a standard analog snake cable to run lines from the stage to the Mix
Rack (analog snake cable not included). Then connect the snake
to Stage inputs 1–48.
2
Press the +48V switch in the ACS Input section.
You can apply 48V phantom power to any Mix Rack XLR input.
10
Mix Rack
Stage Outputs 1–16
(Analog Line XLR Outputs)
The Stage Output Section provides up to 32 channels of stage output (XLR), to connect to house/mains, monitors, additional
zones, or feeds to other devices.
Ancillary Connections
(AC Power, Synchronization and Optional Connections)
Powering the System Up and Down
Powering Up
AC Power Connectors
The AC Power connectors accept standard AC power cable, for
powering each of the two (redundant) internal Mix Rack power
supply units. Mix Rack power supplies are auto-power selecting
(100V to 240V, 50–60Hz) and automatically work with a standard modular power cord when connected to an AC receptacle in
any country.
Faders move when power is turned on. Before powering up the
system, make sure all fader paths are clear of obstructions.
Power up the system in the following sequence:
1
If applicable, power up any Stage 48 remote stage boxes. Wait
for the Stage 48(s) to initialize. Initialization is complete when
the Power and Status LEDs on the Stage 48 front panel are lit
solid green.
ECx Port
2
Your console.
The ECx port lets you connect an RJ-45 Ethernet cable for remote
control of the system from a laptop or tablet computer.
3
Mix Rack.
4
Any connected computers for recording/playback options.
5
Audio monitoring system.
See the VENUE D-Show Guide or the VENUE Profile Guide
for more information on ECx.
USB Ports
The USB ports on the front panel of the Mix Rack are USB 2.0
ports, letting you connect iLoks, USB key disks and other USB
devices. (An additional, secure USB port is located inside the
Mix Rack chassis as well; use this internal port to connect and secure a pre-loaded iLok to always be available to that Mix Rack
system.)
FOH Link Connector
(See “Connecting Consoles to Mix Rack” on page 9.)
Word Clock I/O
The Word Clock In and Out ports provide transmission and reception of word clock signals, letting your synchronize external
digital devices with your VENUE system.
Powering Down
Power down the system in the following sequence:
1
Audio monitoring system.
2
Any connected computers for recording/playback options.
3
Mix Rack.
4
Your console.
5
Any connected Stage 48 remote stage boxes.
Restarting the System
If at any time during setup or performance it becomes necessary
to restart the system, you can restart the entire system or reset individual hardware devices.
For more information on restarting your VENUE system and
resetting system hardware, see the Troubleshooting chapter
of the guide that came with your console (VENUE Profile
Guide, or VENUE D-Show Guide).
Chapter 2: Connecting the Mix Rack 11
Configuring your System with a
Mix Rack
When using a VENUE system with a Mix Rack, some system
configuration settings will be unavailable or different from those
on other VENUE systems. Be aware of the maximum possible
configurations whenever transferring show files, presets, or other
data between VENUE systems.
Maximum System Configuration
.
Maximum Mix Rack Configuration
Parameter
Max
Mix Engines
3
Mic Inputs
48
Input Channels
80
FX Returns
16
Graphic EQs
24
How to Proceed
To learn how to operate your VENUE system, see the
VENUE Profile Guide or VENUE D-Show Guide that came with
your console.
12
Mix Rack
Chapter 3: Mechanical Specifications
Mix Rack Mechanical Specifications
Mix Rack Specifications (Maximum Configuration)
Dimensions (H x W x D)
19.25 x 19 x 18 inches (489 x 483 x 458 mm)
Rack Spaces
11 U
Weight
117 lbs (45.4 kg)
Power Requirements
AC 100–240V, 50–60 Hz, 360 W
Word Clock In/Out Connectors
BNC female (2)
USB Ports (3, including internal))
USB 2.0
FOH Link Connector
MIL connector
Max FOH Link Cable Length
11 ft. (3.35 m)
Environmental
Parameter
Specification
Storage Temperature
Limit
Units
Condition/Comment
0 to +140
deg F
–18 to +60 deg C
Operating Temperature
+40 to +115
deg F
+4 to +40 deg C
Storage humidity range
5 to 95
%
Non-condensing
Operating humidity range
20 to 80
%
Non-condensing
Chapter 3: Mechanical Specifications 13
14
Mix Rack
Chapter 4: Audio Specifications
Mix Rack General Audio Specifications
Audio, general
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Internal Sample
Rate
48
kHz
External Sample
Rate
48 +/– 10 ppm (word clock input)
kHz
Processing Delay
(latency)
Less than 2.3
Internal Processing
up to 48-bit, fixed point
Frequency
Response
+/– 0.2
Dynamic Range
110
Crosstalk
max
Units
ms
Condition/Comment
48 channels, stage input through L–R bus to
stage output
288 dB internal dynamic range
dB
20 Hz – 20 kHz BW, relative to 1 kHz
min
dB
Analog stage input to analog stage output,
re +24 dBu, A-weighted, 20 Hz – 20 kHz BW
–100
max
dB
Adjacent Stage inputs to L–R bus, @ 1 kHz
Residual Output
Noise
–90
max
dBu
20 Hz – 20 kHz BW
Maximum Voltage Gain
84
dB
Stage input to L–R bus, channel & L–R
faders @ max
All measurements at Fs=48 kHz with 150 Ohm source impedance and 600 Ohm load impedance, unless otherwise specified.
0 dBU = 0.775Vrms.
Chapter 4: Audio Specifications 15
Stage Inputs and Outputs
Stage Inputs
AI16 Analog Mic/Line Inputs
Parameter
Specifications
Type
Balanced, XLR3-Female
Gain
Limit
Units
Condition/ Comment
+10 to +60
dB
6 dB analog steps with 0.1 dB
digital increments and crossfade
at analog relay switch point
Max Input Level
+32
dBu
Pad ON
Pad
20
dB
Input Impedance, pad OFF
5.5k
Ohm
Each leg to ground
Input Impedance, pad ON
3.8k
Ohm
Each leg to ground
Phantom Power
+48
VDC
10 mA max per channel
EIN
–126
dBu
Max gain, 150 ohm source,
20 Hz–20 kHz BW, unweighted
THD + N
0.003
%
Minimum gain, pad OFF, –1 dBFS
output, 20 Hz–20 kHz BW
A/D Converter Latency
0.25
ms
Fs=48kHz
Units
Condition/ Comment
Ohm
Each leg to ground
max
Stage Outputs
AO16 Analog Line Outputs
16
Parameter
Specifications
Type
Balanced, XLR3-Male
Impedance
50
Maximum Output Level
+24
D/A Converter Latency
0.58
Mix Rack
Limit
max
dBu
ms
Fs=48kHz
FOH Inputs and Outputs
FOH Input
Analog Line Inputs 1–8; 2–Track Analog Inputs
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Units
max
dBu
Condition/Comment
Type
Balanced, 1/4-inch TRS
Female
Maximum Input Level
+24
Input Impedance
10k
THD+N
0.003
max
%
–1 dBFS output, 20 Hz
to 20 kHz BW
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Units
Condition/Comment
Type
XLR3-F
Format
AES/EBU
Termination
110
Ohm
Word Length
24
bit
Sample Rate
48
kHz
Sample Rate Conversion (SRC)
32 to 96
kHz
Always active
Units
Condition/Comment
Ohms
2–Track AES Input
2–Track S/PDIF Input
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Type
Unbalanced, co-axial
(RCA)
Format
S/PDIF (IEC-60958
Type II)
Termination
75
Ohm
Word Length
24
bit
Sample Rate
48
Sample Rate Conversion (SRC)
32 to 96
nom
kHz
kHz
Always active
Chapter 4: Audio Specifications 17
Com Input (XLR/TRS)
Parameter
Specification
Type
Neutrik combi XLR/TRS
Sensitivity
Limit
Units
Condition/Comment
–2 to –32
dBu
Equals 0 dBFS. Switchable in 6 gain steps
Phantom Power
+15
VDC
6mA (switchable on Mix
Rack back panel)
Input Impedance
20k
Ohms
Talkback Mic Input (XLR)
18
Parameter
Specification
Type
XLR3-F
Sensitivity
Units
Condition/Comment
–20
dBu
fixed
Phantom Power
+15
VDC
6mA (always on)
Input Impedance
20k
Ohms
Mix Rack
Limit
FOH Output
Analog Line Outputs 1–8; 2–Track Analog Outputs; Monitor L/R
Parameter
Specification
Type
Balanced, 1/4-inch TRS
Female
Maximum Output Level
+24
Output Impedance
50
Limit
Units
max
dBu
Condition/Comment
Ohm
2–Track AES Output
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Units
Type
XLR3-M
Format
AES/EBU
Word Length
24
bit
Sample Rate
48
kHz
Sample Rate Conversion (SRC)
None
Dithering
None
Channel Status Info
Pro, Audio 48K, No
Emphasis
Max Cable Length
100
meter
Condition/Comment
Without equalization,
110 ohm cable
Chapter 4: Audio Specifications 19
2–Track S/PDIF Output
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Units
Type
Unbalanced, co-axial
(RCA)
Format
S/PDIF (IEC-60958
Type II)
Output Impedance
75
Ohm
Word Length
24
bit
Sample Rate
48
kHz
Sample Rate Conversion (SRC)
None
Dithering
No
Channel Status Info
Consumer, Audio, 48K,
Non-copy, 2-Channel,
General Category,
Level 2 Clock
Condition/Comment
Headphone Output
Parameter
Specification
Limit
Units
Condition/Comment
Type
Unbalanced, 1/4-inch
TRS Female
Output Impedance
50
Ohm
20
mW
at +21 dBu with 32 Ohm
headphones
130
mW
at +21 dBu with 600
Ohm headphones
Located on console
Max RMS Power Output
Synchronization and Control I/O
20
Ancillary
Connector
Count
MIDI In
5-Pin DIN F
1
MIDI Out
5-Pin DIN F
1
Word Clock In
BNC-F
1
Word Clock Out
BNC-F
1
FOH Link
Multi-Pin
1
55-pin
Ethernet (ECx)
RJ-45
1
100BaseT
Mix Rack
Type
Appendix A: Compliance Information
Environmental Compliance
Disposal of Waste Equipment by Users in the
European Union
This symbol on the product or its packaging indicates that this product must not
be disposed of with other waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to dispose of
your waste equipment by handing it over to a designated collection point for the
recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The separate collection
and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help conserve
natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human
health and the environment. For more information about where you can drop off
your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city recycling
office or the dealer from whom you purchased the product.
Proposition 65 Warning
This product contains chemicals, including lead, known to
the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
FCC Compliance for United States
Radio and Television Interference
Communication Statement
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try and correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
• Reorient or locate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
Any modifications to the unit, unless expressly approved by
Avid, could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.
Australian Compliance
Perchlorate Notice
This product may contain a lithium coin battery. The State of California requires
the following disclosure statement: “Perchlorate Material – special handling may
apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.”
Recycling Notice
Canadian Compliance
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du
Règlement sur le material brouilleur du Canada.
CE Compliance
EMC (Electromagnetic Compliance)
Avid declares that this product complies with the following standards regulating
emissions and immunity:
• FCC Part 15 Class B
• EN 55103-1 E2, E3
• EN 55103-2 E2, E3
• AS/NZS CISPR 22 Class B
• CISPR 22 Class B
(EMC and Safety)
Avid is authorized to apply the CE (Conformité Europénne) mark on this
compliant equipment thereby declaring conformity to EMC Directive
2004/108/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC.
Korean EMC Regulations
21
Avid
Technical Support (USA)
Product Information
2001 Junipero Serra Boulevard
Daly City, CA 94014-3886 USA
Visit the Online Support Center at
www.avid.com/support
For company and product information,
visit us on the web at www.avid.com